Speaking to Law Enforcement: What You Need to Know

Speaking to Law Enforcement: What You Need to Know

If you have been arrested or have been in the general vicinity of a crime, law enforcement will be interested in asking you questions. Even innocent people often feel as if they are treated like criminals during this questioning process. The job of law enforcement is to solve a crime and their goal is to do it as quickly and efficiently as possible. The hunt for an answer in a timely manner can sometimes lead to innocent people being wrongly accused and charged with a crime.

As a society, we want police officers to zealously investigate crimes. That being said, it is important to speak with a lawyer before talking with the police. Many times people speak with law enforcement officials believing it is no big deal or that there is nothing to worry about. Innocent people also feel that they can handle the matter themselves and by speaking with law enforcement it will make them leave or go away. Law enforcement is trained in interrogation and have practiced techniques in getting people to make statements and admissions, sometimes even when they are not true. It is so important to speak to an attorney, regardless of your innocence and regardless of why law enforcement has a desire to speak to you.

How Law Enforcement Operates: Reid Technique

Police officers and detectives are trained to communicate with people about crimes. This includes criminals, witnesses, and anyone who might provide information regarding illegal activity. Interrogating someone in relation to a crime is a common way to gather information.

One interrogation technique used by some law enforcement officials is called the Reid Technique. It begins with basic questions about the case and if the person being interrogated appears to be lying, the interrogator makes an accusation based on made up evidence. Naturally, the suspect denies the allegations, but the interrogator ignores this denial. He or she continues making accusations based on the false evidence in an attempt to intimidate the suspect.

Though the Reid Technique has proven effective, some who have studied it as an interrogation method believe it increases the likelihood of a false admission. They have called the Reid Technique “inherently coercive” because it triggers feelings of hopelessness. Suspects admit to a crime they did not commit just to end the interrogation. Unfortunately, by admitting to the crime, they are setting themselves up for serious consequences.

What You Should Know

Whether you are accused of committing a crime, witnessing a crime, or just happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time, it is never advisable to speak to law enforcement without the assistance of an attorney. Your actions can lead to serious consequences, even if you had nothing to do with a crime. You are better off erring on the side of caution and having a lawyer present when you share information with law enforcement. This is true even if you have been assured you are not a suspect.

Has law enforcement contacted you? Have you witnessed a crime or are you concerned you could be charged with a crime? You need the assistance of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Contact The Law Offices of Ross Green at (650) 780-0707.